Austria’s deposit scheme returns 1.2B aluminium and PET bottles in first year

Austria started a Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) on January 1, 2025, and it closed the first year with 1.2 billion PET bottles and aluminium cans returned by the end of November, showing strong public participation and early operational stability.

Austria introduced a EUR 0.25 (USD 0.29) deposit on single-use beverage containers from 0.1 to 3 litres. The scheme is run by EWP Recycling Pfand Österreich and supported by its core technology partner Sensoneo.

According to Sensoneo, 75 per cent of consumers support the system, driven by visible reductions in litter and improved recycling as key motivations. Weekly returns of aluminium cans and PET bottles rose gradually during the initial days and stabilised at 7–9 million units per week.

Also read: Secondary aluminium on track to add 22 MT of capacity as global projects gain momentum

EWP states that it expects Austria to meet its 80 per cent return rate target by year-end, with final official figures due in January. The operator is now prioritising convenience and clarity, aiming to help citizens understand the shift from earlier recycling practices to the structured DRS model.

Upcoming initiatives include:

• More manual collection points for smaller retailers.
• Exploring public return points to increase accessibility in busy areas.
• Designated donation drop-off containers, allowing people to return items for social causes.

To know about the current aluminium recycling initiatives and schemes across the world, download our report: World Recycled ALuminium Market Analysis Industry forecast to 2032

The success of Austria’s rollout mirrors recycling developments across Europe. In April, Sensoneo confirmed that Ireland’s DRS had collected over 1 billion containers within a year. Ireland charges 15 cents for 150 to 500 ml packs and 25 cents for 500 ml to 3L packs.

In Spain, TOMRA installed DRS machines in Sangüesa, Navarra, for a government trial. Eligible drinks carry a €0.10 (USD 0.11) deposit refunded via reverse-vending machines.

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